Soviet Dominance in Eastern Europe

Identify and explain the sources of disillusionment with Soviet dominance in Eastern Europe after WWII. Please include any references you my have.

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Background: After World War II much of Eastern Europe was decimated from invasion, bombing, privation, and other war related issues. By February 1945, it was clear to the Allied Powers that Nazi Germany would be defeated, much as Fascist Italy had. Allied leaders met on February 4, 1945 in Yalta with two major topics under discussion: the partition of Europe after Germany's defeat and the USSR's entry into the Pacific War. By April 1945 US President Roosevelt had died succeeded by Harry Truman, partisans killed Mussolini, and Hitler had committed suicide. Nazi German surrendered on May 7th to the Allies and May 8th to the Soviets. On July 11, 1945, Allied leaders met in Potsdam to confirm agreements about European occupation. The Empire of Japan refused to surrender until the U.S. dropped atomic weapons on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and on August 15, 1945, formally surrendered, ending the War.

The issues surrounding Yalta, Potsdam, and atomic warfare were, however, critical for Eastern Europe after Germany's surrender. Soviet Premier Stalin insisted upon a large buffer zone, protecting his country from future invasions (the outward reason), but in effect, wanted to control more territory for agriculture, production, and to provide the USSR with a way to repair the internal damages of the war. In addition, Stalin was concerned about the American use of atomic ...

Solution Summary

The source of disillusionment with Soviet dominance in Eastern Europe after WWII is identified and explained.